Firefighters couldn't open the hydrant in front of the resort while the main building burned to the ground.

Officials have said having a working hydrant in front of the resort wouldn't have changed the outcome. The building was engulfed in flames when firefighters arrived on the scene. (Yvonne Leblanc-Smith/CBC)

Village staff later said the hydrant was working but a tool extension was needed to open it.

The fire department then complained to the UARB about the village's hydrant maintenance plans and procedures. Concerns included flushing and maintenance that hadn't been done in years.

The board sought written submissions from both sides. In one filing, the village said turnover in public works staff affected its ability to complete flushing and maintenance.

In addition to getting all hydrants working by the end of the year, the UARB has also directed the village to produce written procedures — including tools needed — and to share them with the fire department.

Village commission chair Brian Morrison says the Baddeck water utility will comply with the regulator.

"We're already working on a number of the recommendations as noted in the conclusion of the report," he said.

"You know, since the summer, we've developed standard operating procedures for all hydrants and we will now include the additional required information to make sure the fire department has copies."

The village says written procedures, including the tools necessary to open hydrants, will be shared with the Baddeck volunteer fire department. (Tom Ayers/CBC)

Morrison also said the village hopes to work with the fire department to eventually patch up their relationship.

"In order for us to move forward, every group has a part to play and as far as the village is concerned, we are working toward that end."